Karl Lagerfeld in 1954

At 21-years-old, Karl Lagerfeld won first prize in the coat category at the Fashion Design Competition in Paris back in 1954 – a success which kick-started his career within the industry. [Photo: Getty]

Karl Lagerfeld's legacy: The Chanel designer's career in pictures

Dubbed one of the world’s most prolific designers, the 85-year-old revolutionised the face of fashion over the course of his seven decade-long career. After stints at Jean Patou and Chloé, Lagerfeld finally found his footing at Chanel – undoubtedly his most famous move.

Having presided over the French fashion house for more than 30 years (with as many as eight collections a year), he saved the company from financial ruin courtesy of his now-famous rebrand of the interlocking CC logo.

Further demonstrating his sartorial know-how and starry connections, the designer is also widely hailed for his five-decade reign at Fendi where he joined as head of womenswear and furs back in 1965.

From his very first freelance job to the designer’s most famous star-studded runways, we take a look back at Karl Lagerfeld’s illustrious career in pictures.